Becoming Dr. Q

My Journey from Migrant Farm Worker to Brain Surgeon

By: Alfredo Quinones-Hinojosa, Mim Eichler Rivas

Narrated by: Henry Levya

Today he is known as Dr. Q, an internationally renowned neurosurgeon and neuroscientist who leads cutting-edge research to cure brain cancer. But not too long ago, he was Freddy, a nineteen-year-old undocumented migrant worker toiling in the tomato fields of central California. In this gripping memoir, Alfredo Quiñones-Hinojosa tells his amazing life story--from his impoverished childhood in the tiny village of Palaco, Mexico, to his harrowing border crossing and his transformation from illegal immigrant to American citizen and gifted student at the University of California at Berkeley and at Harvard Medical School. Packed with adventure and adversity--including a few terrifying brushes with death--Becoming Dr. Q is a testament to persistence, hard work, the power of hope and imagination, and the pursuit of excellence. It's also a story about the importance of family, of mentors, and of giving people a chance.

Thank Heaven for Mexican Immigrants

I loved every word of it. Please send a copy to Donald Trump, and one to every member of his family including his son Baron.

Incredible story

Incredible story, excellently written. Highly recommended for those striving to achieve great accomplishments in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenge.

What an inspiring work about an incredible individual that is a blessing to this world.

Having been a patient of his I can’t fault anything about this book or story.

Inspirational, Magical, and Empowering

I cried several times…as a Mexican immigrant first generation woman I feel very identified with Dr. Quinones’ story. A book that talks about determination and resilience.

Que orgullosa me siento de ser Mexicana! Gracias por brindar al lector inspiración y demostrarte que la tenacidad es una gran herramienta en la vida.

Me encanto el libro, lo terminé en una semana :)

Perseverance

Inspiring, perseverance, overcoming obstacles was evident in his journey. An common characteristic of Migrant children and families.

Dr Q, extraordinaire

Loved everything about the story of becoming Dr. Q. A journey well told, with honesty, humility, heart, and humor. A remarkable life, well lived and deserved.

Inspiring autobiography

Hard work and courage takes a person a long way.. Enjoyed the true rendition of DrQ’s journey

Humble but truly incredible person.

As a Mexican physician overseas this has been greatly inspiring. The struggles we face are sometimes overlooked by people.

Dr. Q's Enthusiasm is Contagious

The story of his life is full of surprises. His positive outlook is inspiring. He is a remarkable person. It's reassuring to know that there are still some doctors who care about the patient's. A great read.
He lovingly talks about his wife and family. I couldn't help wishing that his wife had written a book regarding what it's like to be married to a student of neuroscience and of course later a surgeon. She seems like she is a wonderful wife.

Grit

I am in awe of this book. I laughed, I cried and I am deeply inspired by the humbleness Dr.Q carries throughout his journey. He is modeling the way for underrepresented aspiring health professionals as myself. Shooting for stars